South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Overview
As per MRFR analysis, the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Size was estimated at 25.5 (USD Million) in 2023.The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Industry is expected to grow from 27.3 (USD Million) in 2024 to 93.8 (USD Million) by 2035. The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 11.874% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035)
Key South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Trends Highlighted
The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market is currently experiencing significant growth driven by several key market drivers, including advancements in manufacturing technologies and the rising demand for lightweight materials across various industries. The country’s strong automotive and aerospace sectors are increasingly adopting pitch-based carbon fiber due to its superior mechanical properties and weight reduction benefits. Additionally, the South Korean government's support for advanced materials development, particularly in green technologies, is fueling innovation in carbon fiber applications, enhancing the country’s competitive edge in this sector.
In South Korea's pitch-based carbon fiber market, opportunities lie in developing eco-friendly production and recycling processes. There is growing attention directed toward developing carbon fibers with a lower environmental impact or ones made from pre-processed materials due to the growing focus on sustainability. This is in line with the shift to South Korea’s pledge to become carbon neutral by 2050, which is forcing businesses to look for sustainable options. Recent times indicate a change in focus towards specialized uses in renewables, electronics, sports equipment, etc. As South Korean industries focus on high-performance materials, pitch-based carbon fiber is gaining preference due to its high tensile strength, thermal stability, and other unique characteristics.
Furthermore, collaborations between industry leaders and research institutions are paving the way for innovative solutions and new product development, ensuring that South Korea remains at the forefront of pitch-based carbon fiber technology. The intersection of demand for high-performance materials and sustainability initiatives suggests a promising future for the market in this region.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Drivers
Increasing Demand for Lightweight Materials in Aerospace and Automotive Sectors
The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Industry is witnessing substantial growth spurred by the escalating demand for lightweight materials, particularly in the aerospace and automotive industries. According to the South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the aerospace sector is expected to grow by 15% annually over the next five years, prompting manufacturers to seek advanced materials such as pitch-based carbon fiber, which offers superior strength-to-weight ratios.
Major companies such as Korean Air and Hyundai Motor Company are investing significantly in Research and Development initiatives to enhance fuel efficiency and performance metrics, which are critical for compliance with international aviation standards and environmental regulations. The weight reduction capabilities of pitch-based carbon fiber could potentially lead to a 30% decrease in fuel consumption for aircraft, presenting a robust incentive for industry stakeholders.
With a projected annual increase in aircraft production alongside rising vehicle electrification trends, the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market is set to flourish.
Government Support for Advanced Material Technologies
The South Korean government plays a pivotal role in supporting the growth of the Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Industry through initiatives focused on advanced material technologies. The government's recent policies have introduced funding programs aimed at promoting innovation within the composites sector, with allocations amounting to over $300 million in the next five years. This financial backing encourages collaboration between academia and industry veterans such as LG Chem and Hanwha Solutions, paving the way for breakthroughs in material science.
As a result, the country is witnessing a surge in patents related to carbon fiber production processes, which, according to the Korean Intellectual Property Office, increased by 25% from 2018 to 2022. This growth in patent filings is indicative of a vibrant research ecosystem that is continually enhancing the capabilities and applications of pitch-based carbon fiber.
Rising Applications in Renewable Energy Sector
The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Industry is set to expand, driven by growing applications in the renewable energy sector, specifically in wind turbine manufacturing. Statistics from the Korea Wind Energy Association indicate a national plan to increase renewable energy's share in the total energy mix to over 20% by 2030. This commitment has led to a surge in demand for lighter and stronger materials to construct wind turbine blades.
As pitch-based carbon fiber's high durability and corrosion resistance make it ideal for such applications, leading manufacturers like Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction are actively incorporating these materials. Their recent projects reveal that using pitch-based carbon fiber in turbine blade construction can significantly enhance energy output efficiency by up to 15%, aligning perfectly with South Korea's sustainable energy ambitions.
South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Segment Insights
Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Type Insights
The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market is demonstrating notable growth, driven primarily by the increasing demand for advanced materials across various industries. The market segmentation around Type reflects two key categories: Composites and Non-Composites. Composites hold a significant share of the market, valued for their lightweight yet high-strength properties, which are essential in aerospace, automotive, and sporting goods. These materials support manufacturers in enhancing fuel efficiency and overall performance of vehicles, thus addressing critical regulations and market needs. Non-Composites, although holding a different market stance, cater to specific applications that require unique properties such as electrical conductivity and resistance to high temperatures. The demand for such materials is shifting, particularly in the electronics and energy sectors, which are showing increasing reliance on advanced materials for better performance and to meet evolving consumer expectations.
Market growth is spurred by various factors, including increasing investments in Research and Development activities aimed at improving material properties and applications. Furthermore, the shift towards sustainable and lightweight materials is driving innovation in both Composites and Non-Composites. Government initiatives in South Korea are also favoring the adoption of these advanced materials, aligning with national strategies focused on technological advancements and eco-friendly practices. Overall, the segmentation of the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market reflects a dynamic landscape, with each category contributing to the market's evolution and supporting the national industry in modernizing infrastructure and enhancing technological capabilities.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Application Insights
The Application segment of the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market showcases diverse industries, each leveraging the unique properties of pitch-based carbon fibers for enhanced performance and efficiency. In Aerospace and Defense, the lightweight yet strong characteristics of these fibers are crucial for reducing fuel consumption and enhancing structural integrity. The Automotive sector highlights a shift towards lightweight materials, driven by stringent emissions regulations, making pitch-based carbon fibers a significant option for improving vehicle efficiency.
In Construction, these materials are valued for their durability and resistance to environmental stressors, contributing to the longevity of infrastructure. The Wind Energy sector relies on pitch-based carbon fibers for creating robust blades that maximize efficiency and durability, aligning with growing renewable energy initiatives in South Korea. Furthermore, in Sports and Leisure, these fibers enhance the performance of equipment, providing athletes with competitive advantages. Overall, the segmentation of the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market reveals opportunities for innovation and growth across various applications, influenced by the growing demand for lightweight, strong, and durable materials in multiple industries, reflecting a trend toward sustainability and efficiency in production processes.
South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market is characterized by a dynamic competitive landscape, driven by the growing demand for lightweight and high-strength materials across various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and sporting goods. As manufacturers strive to enhance product performance while reducing weight, pitch-based carbon fibers have gained prominence due to their superior characteristics compared to traditional materials. The market is underscored by the increasing emphasis on innovation and sustainability, prompting companies to invest in advanced production technologies and research to capture market share and meet the evolving preferences of manufacturers. The competitive dynamics are influenced by a variety of factors, including technological advancements, pricing strategies, and the strategic alliances that companies form to strengthen their market position.
Nippon Graphite Fiber has established a significant presence in the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market, focusing on high-performance materials that cater to specific applications demanding exceptional levels of durability and strength. The company's strength lies in its advanced manufacturing processes and superior product quality, which allow it to meet stringent industry standards. Nippon Graphite Fiber's commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions has enabled it to build strong relationships with key stakeholders in various sectors. The company's ability to adapt to market trends and its strategic investments in research and development further reinforce its competitive advantage within this niche market, demonstrating a clear understanding of local demands and international quality benchmarks.
Cytec Solvay Group is another major player in the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market, offering a diverse range of products and services tailored to meet the needs of industries reliant on high-performance materials. The company is known for its innovative approach and extensive portfolio, which includes advanced composites and specialty materials designed for demanding applications. Cytec Solvay Group’s strengths lie in its robust research and development capabilities, allowing it to continuously enhance and expand its product offerings. Its market presence is fortified by strategic partnerships and collaborations, which have been pivotal in driving growth within the South Korean landscape. Furthermore, the company's proactive approach towards mergers and acquisitions has enabled it to broaden its expertise and technological capabilities, ensuring a strong positioning amid increasing competition and evolving market demands within the region.
Key Companies in the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Include
- Nippon Graphite Fiber
- Cytec Solvay Group
- Aromatic Technologies
- Teijin
- Hanwha Group
- Toray Industries
- Formosa Plastics
- Zoltek
- Mitsubishi Rayon
- Solvay
- Koran Carbon Fiber
- Korea Carbon Fiber
- SGL Carbon
- Hyosung
South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Industry Developments
There have been significant developments in the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market recently. Companies like Nippon Graphite Fiber, Toray Industries, and SGL Carbon have ramped up their production capacities, responding to rising demand fueled by sectors such as aerospace and renewable energy. In September 2023, Hanwha Group announced an expansion of its carbon fiber production facilities to enhance competitiveness, anticipating a market growth trajectory backed by government initiatives to support high-tech materials. In terms of mergers and acquisitions, Formosa Plastics was involved in discussions to acquire a significant stake in Koran Carbon Fiber in August 2023, aiming to consolidate their market presence; however, no finalized contracts have been reported yet.
The market is projected to grow considerably, with its valuation increasing by approximately 15% over the past year, reflecting robust investment in Research and Development by major players like Mitsubishi Rayon and Cytec Solvay Group. This growth is not just limited to production capacity but also focuses on sustainability and innovation in materials used in electronics and automotive applications, marking a transformational period for South Korea’s pitch-based carbon fiber industry.
Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Segmentation Insights
- Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Type Outlook
- Composites
- Non-Composites
-
- Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market Application Outlook
- Aerospace & Defense
- Automotive
- Construction
- Wind Energy
- Sports & Leisure
- Others
Report Attribute/Metric |
Details |
Market Size 2023 |
25.5 (USD Million) |
Market Size 2024 |
27.3 (USD Million) |
Market Size 2035 |
93.8 (USD Million) |
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) |
11.874% (2025 - 2035) |
Report Coverage |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
Base Year |
2024 |
Market Forecast Period |
2025 - 2035 |
Historical Data |
2019 - 2024 |
Market Forecast Units |
USD Million |
Key Companies Profiled |
Nippon Graphite Fiber, Cytec Solvay Group, Aromatic Technologies, Teijin, Hanwha Group, Toray Industries, Formosa Plastics, Zoltek, Mitsubishi Rayon, Solvay, Koran Carbon Fiber, Korea Carbon Fiber, SGL Carbon, Hyosung |
Segments Covered |
Type, Application |
Key Market Opportunities |
Growing aerospace industry demand, Rising automotive lightweighting initiatives, Increasing energy storage applications, Expanding sporting goods sector, Advancements in carbon fiber manufacturing |
Key Market Dynamics |
Increasing aerospace applications, Rising demand in automotive, Environmental regulations on manufacturing, Technological advancements in production, Growing demand for lightweight materials |
Countries Covered |
South Korea |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market is expected to be valued at 27.3 million USD in 2024.
By 2035, the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market is projected to reach a value of 93.8 million USD.
The expected CAGR for the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market from 2025 to 2035 is 11.874%.
In 2035, the Composites segment is expected to have a larger market size valued at 48.5 million USD compared to Non-Composites at 45.3 million USD.
Key players in the South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market include Nippon Graphite Fiber, Cytec Solvay Group, and Toray Industries, among others.
The market value for Composites in 2024 is anticipated to be 13.5 million USD.
Challenges that may impact the market include fluctuations in raw material prices and technological advancements.
Emerging trends include increasing demand for lightweight materials and innovations in manufacturing processes.
The South Korea Pitch-Based Carbon Fiber Market is a key player in the Asia-Pacific region, showing robust growth compared to other regions.
Primary applications of pitch-based carbon fiber in South Korea include aerospace, automotive, and construction industries.